A new humanoid robot can install walls and use screwdrivers.

 

The HRP-5P, from Japan's National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), is designed to replace heavy-duty human labor. The researchers see the robot as a solution for the U.S.' labor shortage - brought on by what they say is an aging population and a declining birth rate.

 

As seen above, the robot is able to autonomously perform a variety of building tasks, like installing drywall. It's capable of handling large objects like plywood panels and gypsum boards.

 

“It is expected that many industries, such as the construction industry, will fall into serious manual shortages in the future, and it is urgent to solve this problem by robot technology,” AIST researchers wrote. “Also, at work sites assembling very large structures such as building sites and assembling of aircraft/ships, workers are carrying out dangerous heavy work, and it is desired to replace these tasks with robot technology."

 

Utilizing robots in construction, installing, and other labor-heavy tasks could very easily be a great idea or a terrible one. What do you all think? Could this technology someday replace too many humans? Or will the benefits outweigh the risks?